Charlotte J. Rutkowski, 76, of Niagara Falls, NY, passed away peacefully on January 6, 2026, at her residence. Born in Niagara Falls, she was the daughter of the late Kenneth and Theresa (Urbanovicus) Hathaway.

Charlotte was raised in Niagara Falls and graduated from Niagara Falls High School. She spent more than 25 years working as a sales associate at Sears, a position she truly loved and took great pride in. She later continued her career at Crestwood Nursing Home and Schoellkopf Health Center.

A gentle and loving soul, Charlotte had a lifelong affection for animals, especially cats and dogs. She enjoyed quiet moments spent reading, completing crossword puzzles, and, above all, sharing time with her family.

Charlotte is survived by her beloved children, William (DeEtte) Rutkowski, Kenneth (Heather) Rutkowski, Thomas (Megan Trotter) Rutkowski and Theresa (Jarrod) Barry; her cherished grandchildren, Collin Rutkowski, Cameron Rutkowski, Zak Rutkowski, Ellis Rutkowski, Peyton Barry, Liam Barry, and Savannah Barry; and her two siblings, Gerald (Barbara) Hathaway and Margaret (Paul) Smith. She is also survived by her former husband, William Rutkowski, along with several nieces, nephews, and cousins. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her brother, Richard (late Kathleen) Hathaway.

Family and friends are welcome to attend Charlotte's Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday, February 14 at 10:00 AM in St. Mary of the Cataract Church, 237 4th St, Niagara Falls, NY 14303. Interment will follow in Gate of Heaven Cemetery, Lewiston, NY. Memorial offerings in Charlotte's name may be made to the Ten Lives Club at tenlivesclub.org. Arrangements by M.J. Colucci & Son Niagara Funeral Chapel. Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.